Staffordshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner is holding a meeting of public agency leaders to discuss their preparedness to respond to incidents, in light of recent terrorist attacks.

Senior managers and leaders will meet on Wednesday (June 21), with Commissioner Matthew Ellis chairing the meeting. It will also include an operational update from the police’s perspective by Assistant Chief Constable Nick Adderley.

In the light of the tragic Grenfell Tower fire last week, Mr Ellis also wants to broaden the discussion and sharing of knowledge to include civil contingency planning.

Mr Ellis said: "Tragic events of late have once again highlighted the need to make sure the work of the police and other agencies to keep us all safe across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent is effective.

"The meeting I’ve called will provide a security update by the police, but will also be a chance to understand in detail all agencies’ preparedness to work together in the most difficult circumstances.

"After the recent horrific fire at the Grenfell House tower block in London I also intend to use the meeting to seek assurance that the wider civil contingencies plans responding to the most serious incidents are adequate."

Following yesterday's terror incident in Finsbury Park in London, police in Cheshire have also moved to reassure residents.

Temporary Assistant Chief Constable Nick Bailey, of Cheshire Constabulary, said: “It is with sadness that another dreadful attack has taken place in London. Our thoughts are very much with all those affected by the tragic events.

“I want to reassure everyone across the county that you will continue to see a visible police presence with particular attention given to mosques. Officers will be working closely with local communities to ensure residents feel and are kept safe.

“We are aware that often following acts of terrorism incidents there can be an increase in hate crimes within our communities. There can never be any excuse for hate crime in any shape or form and more than ever in these uncertain times, we want those who are victims of hate crime to feel confident in the belief that we’ll take your reports seriously. We are here to protect you and make sure you get all the support you need.

“As is always the case in these instances, everyone is urged to remain vigilant - be alert not alarmed - and report any suspicious activity to the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321 or by dialing 999.”